Understanding how emerin protein affects heart cells
Official title: Uncovering the function of emerin and its regulation by secretory trafficking in human cardiomyocytes
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11079430 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called emerin in heart cells to see how it affects heart function and gene activity, using special lab-grown heart cells to better understand its role in heart disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $42,057 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HL170757-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079430 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Emery Dreifuss Muscular Dystrophy type I or those experiencing cardiac arrhythmias related to emerin dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any genetic mutations affecting the emerin protein or those with unrelated cardiac conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the emerin protein in human heart cells, specifically focusing on its function in atrial cardiomyocytes. By manipulating the localization of emerin in these cells, the study aims to uncover how it contributes to gene regulation and the mechanical properties of heart tissue. The research utilizes advanced techniques involving human induced pluripotent stem cells to create models that mimic human heart conditions. This approach will help clarify the mechanisms behind emerin's dysfunction in heart disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into heart diseases associated with emerin dysfunction, potentially improving treatment options for affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific manipulation of emerin in human heart cells is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in understanding protein functions in cardiac biology.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mella, Jessica — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Mella, Jessica
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.